7 Sights to see in Warrnambool
Are you planning a trip to Warrnambool? Known for lighthouses, beaches, and the award-winning Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, discover one of Victoria's bustling metropolitans! While it's only a short drive from Melbourne, don’t waste a minute of your trip and discover the 7 top things to do in Warrnambool. Spend less time researching and more time making memories with this in-depth list of beaches and attractions.
Top 7 sights to see in Warrnambool
Bay Of Islands
Located off the Great Ocean Road, the Bay Of Islands is suitable for friends and family to enjoy!
The list of Bay Of Island activities stretches from enjoying Warnmambool beach to being dazzled by historic shipwrecks. The National coastal park is also where tourists can see the 12 Apostles, a unique limestone stack attracting attention from near and far. While picturesque and expansive, time flies whether spending an afternoon or a full day exploring the Bay Of Islands, Warrnambool. Breathe in the fresh ocean air while walking along the bay or stand above from a cliff point scenic lookout. Bay Of Islands, Warrnambool is also home to several species of birds, including the tiny hooded plover and the black-tailed godwit. If you are traveling with four-legged family members, please be mindful that they cannot be off-leash in territories marked for high tide and conservation.
2. Logan’s Beach
Logan’s Beach, Warrnambool, is a great place to relax and enjoy the sounds of the ocean surf while working on your tan. The real reason tourists return every year is Logan’s Beach's proximity to whale watching.
Southern Right Whales have been visiting Warrnambool for decades, with females migrating to bear their calves in nursery-designated areas; close to the shore. For everyone's safety, Logan’s Beach has created a protected lookout station, which is free of charge and includes accessible entrances and walkways regardless of guests' physical abilities. The best time to view this incredible circle of life is from July to October.
3. Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground
For families traveling to Warrnambool, look no further than Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground for an action-packed day. With giant slides, a skateboard park, tennis courts, mini golf, and leisurely boat rides, we encourage you to pack a lunch and use one of the sheltered BBQ facilities. If you are looking to get off the land, canoes, paddle boats, and waterbikes are available to be rented on-site.
Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground opened in the late 70s. Originally the lake was a former swamp area that underwent a mass transformation. The city council of Warrnambool continues to update and add new features constantly. Experience a piece of Warrnambool history walking around the lake, and watch out for new additions, including Edwards Bridge and The Lyndoch Avenue playground.
4. Tower Hill
One of the best things to do in Warrnambool is to discover the wildlife reserve at Tower Hill. Home to emus, kangaroos, koalas, swans, ducks, and blue wrens, guests can walk along this dormant volcano and experience various Australian ecosystems. Tower Hill is a safe volcanic crater that offers private tours or self-guided walks in beautiful Warrnambool scenery.
Tower Hill is a historic site and was declared Victoria’s first national park in 1892. Originally Tower Hill was a revered settler location for its location of water and fertile soil. Today the park is a protected landscape giving local flora and fauna a chance to rebloom and provide a safe environment for the many species who call it home. A trip to Tower Hill, Warrnambool, isn’t complete without booking a cultural and nature tour, run by Worn Gundidj's experienced Indigenous guides.
5. Fletcher Jones / Mill market
The Fletcher Jones market is the perfect spot for an antiquarian to visit. Experience a slice of Warrnambool history and browse the market overflowing with antiques, and retro fashion, plus an abundance of record collections. Spend the day browsing before deciding on modern souvenirs for those back home.
The Fletcher Jones Mill Market is located in the historic former Fletcher Jones factory and is accompanied by a lush garden where visitors can enjoy a coffee and amazing toasted sanga from the Pleasant Hill caravan. The Fletcher Jones factory was owned and operated by Sir Fletcher Jones until his passing in 1977. After he passed, his son David, managed all operations until 1995. At this point, it was purchased by The Dimmick family. The market and gardens were opened to the public in 2013 and continue to flourish while keeping the Fletcher family name, and tradition in style.
6. Shelley Beach / Thunder Point
Warrnambool is home to several coastal walks and scenic drives, including the Shelley Beach Thunder Point Coastal walk. Start by parking by the Coastal Reserve entrance and follow the boardwalk to Stingray Bay.
As the tide goes out during the day, peak into shimmering rock pools and carefully explore the terrain. If you walk the length of the Thunder Point boardwalk route, visitors end at a bridge guiding you to Stingray Bay.
Spend an afternoon or morning at Shelley Beach and bring home playful memories of running along the sand. For families spending the day, there is access to toilets at the exit point. The boardwalk only takes 25-30 minutes, depending on pace, and is an easy activity to squeeze in at any time of day.
7. Warrnambool Breakwater
An iconic piece of Warrnambool history, the Warrnambool Breakwater pier is a testament to the once bustling port city of Warrnambool. The past and present collide as the pier continues to attract tourists. Centrally located at the westernmost point of Lady Bay, this is an easy day out for family and friends.
Upon visiting Warrnambool Breakwater, you’ll see the modern and renovated boardwalk, plus the timber viaduct that once joined the concrete breakwater and now runs along the east side of the Merri River. Today, the breakwater measures a total width of 30ft with a 15ft wide parapet.
While enjoying this stunning slice of architecture, don’t forget to look down and see the seals and stingrays that frequent the pier daily. Locals will happily point out their celebrated pinniped, Sammy, and lucky guests might even get a wave hello!
Where to stay in Warrnambool?
After a busy day exploring the 7 best sights of Warrnambool, why not retreat for the evening in style and comfort?
Stay at the Warrnambool Retreat and be enveloped in modern luxury with local Warrnambool flair. With two separate accommodations, Warrnambool is perfect for families or couples looking to rest luxuriously after a packed holiday itinerary.
Henna at Warrnambool Retreat sleeps four guests with one king and one queen bed. Book this property and treat yourself to a long soak in the freestanding bath or cosy up by the open fireplace, sharing highlights from the day.
Merri at Warrnambool Retreat sleeps four guests with one king and two king singles. Complete with a courtyard ideal for relaxation under the stars, the Merri will not disappoint.
How to travel from Melbourne to Warrnambool?
Getting from Melbourne to Warrnambool has never been easier!
Guests can drive via the M1 for an easy three hours or book a train for thirty minutes longer of travel. Warrnambool Retreat is conveniently located within walking distance from the town centre, delivering convenience to your doorstep for the duration of your stay.
Book this Warrnambool luxury accommodation today and let your Australian holiday begin tomorrow!
